President William Ruto has defended his administration’s performance, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling all promises made during the 2022 election campaign.

Speaking on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during the opening of the 3rd National Executive Retreat at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen, Ruto addressed growing criticism that his government had over-promised and under-delivered.

He dismissed the claims, insisting that the Kenya Kwanza administration set realistic goals and remains on course to achieve them.

“The accusation I often get is that we over-promised. But I want to tell you, we did not over-promise. We promised what is doable,” Ruto said.

The two-day retreat brings together Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries to review the government’s performance, particularly in the face of a slowing economy and rising unemployment.

Ruto emphasized that the commitments outlined in the Kenya Kwanza manifesto are not just political rhetoric but part of a concrete, actionable development agenda.

“All the commitments we made to the people of Kenya are documented in our manifesto, and I am very clear in my mind that we will deliver on that manifesto successfully.”

He mentioned that his administration was elected on a platform of transformation, one that is grounded in reform and a break from business as usual.

“This administration was elected on a platform of transformation,” Ruto said. “And we are determined to do things differently. Our commitments are not just promises; they are targets we will meet.”

He described the retreat as a crucial opportunity for government leaders to reflect on what has been achieved, identify areas where progress is lacking, and align their efforts with the expectations of Kenyans.

The President also challenged Cabinet and Principal Secretaries to move from policy discussions to visible action. He pointed out that results in key sectors such as housing, agriculture, healthcare, and the digital economy would be the true measure of the government’s success.

“We must be bold, focused, and urgent. Kenyans are watching and expecting results,” he said.

The National Executive Retreat continues through Friday. Each ministry is expected to present a detailed performance report and outline a clear roadmap for the upcoming fiscal year, as the government looks to accelerate delivery on its promises and drive national transformation.